Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic chapel located in the heart of Paris, France. It was built in the 13th century by King Louis IX to house religious relics, including the Crown of Thorns. The chapel is renowned for its breathtaking stained glass windows, which cover a total area of over 6,400 square feet. These windows depict biblical scenes and are considered some of the finest examples of medieval stained glass in the world.

The chapel consists of two levels. The lower level, also known as the "crypt," was used by the king and his family for private worship. The upper level, known as the "upper chapel," is the main attraction. It features a soaring vaulted ceiling and 15 tall stained glass windows that fill the space with vibrant colors when sunlight shines through them.

Each window tells a different story from the Bible, from the Creation of the World to the Crucifixion of Jesus. The windows are arranged in a way that creates a narrative sequence, allowing visitors to follow the biblical events as they walk around the chapel.

In addition to the stained glass, the chapel's architecture is also noteworthy. Its slender columns and pointed arches are characteristic of the Gothic style, and the chapel's overall design is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval artisans who built it.

Today, Sainte-Chapelle is open to the public and remains an important cultural and historical landmark in Paris. Visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows, explore the chapel's two levels, and learn about its rich history through informative displays and audio guides.